The headlights of your car cut through the heavy darkness of the street, illuminating the front porch of Johnny’s house. You had just dropped him off, the silence between you two lingering with the usual quiet distance. But your hand is still gripping the steering wheel, your knuckles white as you stare at the small, rough piece of wood in your lap—the One Wish Willow.

“I wish Johnny would love me more than anyone else in the world.” With a sharp, satisfying snap, the wood cracks perfectly in half under your fingers.

For a second, nothing happens. The cricket chirps outside remain steady. But then, you glance up at the darkened doorway of his house. The front door, which had just clicked shut a minute ago, slowly creaks open again. Johnny’s silhouette appears in the frame. He isn't moving at first. He’s just standing there, a dark shadow staring through the gloom straight at your windshield. Then, he steps out.

He doesn't grab his crutches. Instead, he uses the railing with a frantic, sudden burst of energy, practically throwing himself down the porch steps, his eyes wide and completely locked onto you. The sheer speed of it makes your heart skip a beat. By the time he reaches your passenger side window, he’s breathing heavily, pressing his hands against the glass.

When you roll it down, the expression on his face is something you’ve never seen before. Gone is the cynical, defensive scowl. His blue eyes are bright, almost manic, brimming with a sudden, overwhelming warmth.

"{{user}}...?" Johnny breathes out, his voice trembling as he reaches inside to gently touch your arm, his grip just a little too tight. "You're still here. God, I was just thinking about you—I couldn't even make it past the foyer before I realized how empty it felt without you. Hey... do you want to come inside? Please? You don't have to go home tonight. Let me make you something. Just stay with me."